Cabernet Sauvignon “TD-9”, Shafer Vineyards, Napa Valley, CA, 2023

Shafer Vineyards “TD-9” Cabernet Sauvignon 2023 — Professional Ratings

• Jeb Dunnuck — 95 points: Cassis, redcurrant, leafy tobacco and spicy oak. Medium- to full-bodied, with a pure, layered palate, beautiful tannins and outstanding length. Dunnuck says it should hold for 20 years.
• James Suckling — 95 points: Vivid red and black cherries, raspberry and cranberry alongside deep blackberry and blueberry. Full-bodied with fine-grained tannins and a broad, structured palate.
• Decanter — 94 points: Exceptionally bright, with vivid red fruit, sandalwood and rose petal. Firm tannins, cocoa, blood-orange acidity and savory red-rock earth notes provide length and complexity.
• Wine Spectator — 93 points: Plum and blackberry compote with licorice, violet and roasted apple wood. Dense but defined, with good underlying juiciness. Best 2027–2039.
• Vinous — 92 points: Floral and savory aromatics lead into a more delicate, mid-weight expression, with an emphasis on freshness and approachability.
• Wine Advocate — 90–92 points: Ripe, opulent and full-bodied, dominated by black cherry and cassis, with supple tannins and a long, mouthwatering finish. This was a barrel sample rating.